<p>I am a junior, and I have a question for those who are attending Pton.</p>
<p>Why do you think you got in?
What's your major/area of focus?
Do you have any advice for a high school junior hoping to apply in the fall? (If so, what?)</p>
<ol>
<li><p>violin, voice, and theatre in addition to well-roundedness. I had heard that they were pushing for a new wave of artsy people, and it seems to be reflected in a lot of the people I've met.</p></li>
<li><p>hopefully Woody Woo with a theatre certificate</p></li>
<li><p>send supplemental materials! I'm serious when I say every person I've asked here sent something above and beyond the normal application</p></li>
</ol>
<p>do you also want to hear from people who got in but haven't actually 'gone' yet (class of 2011)?</p>
<p>There's really a million different things that can get you in. For me it was honestly just good grades, intellectual curiosity, being generally well rounded, etc. People here have such varied accomplishments. And another interesting thing is that some of the smartest people I know here actually got off the waitlist. </p>
<p>Honestly, by the time you're a junior, a lot of things are already kinda decided for you, but there still are a lot of things you can change. SAT scores aren't the most important thing in the world, but every bit does count. Don't obsess but if you get less than you think you're capable of, based on practice tests, go ahead and retake. This is especially if you're trying to get in with amazing academics as your biggest strength, rather than the arts or athletics or something else. Focus on doing something really meaningful this summer that builds upon what you've already done. Start thinking right now about your essay and keep thinking about things that you can write about that will present you in the best possible light and at the same time really reflect who you are. The most important thing is that you want to make your passion for whatever it is that you're really interested in stand out. Oh, and it goes without saying, but try to keep up those grades. </p>
<p>Princeton's a tough goal, and honestly I'd have to say that at least half of the class was just flat out lucky in getting in here. I never expected to get in, and unless you're finding a cure to AIDs or something ridiculous like that, no one really should. But if you work hard and keep an open mind, you'll find yourself at an outstanding institution in two years.</p>
<p>I worked in a lab that found a potential cure for AIDS and still got deferred early decision.</p>
<p>So, nothing's guaranteed.</p>
<ol>
<li>Well roundedness and beastly test scores.</li>
<li>I applied ChemE but am still undecided.</li>
<li>Do really well on your standardized tests, dont wait til the last minute to fill out your applications, have fun</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li><p>I would say my essays were unusual and well-written (at least this is what my teachers said of them), I had really great grades and ECs, despite my SAT I scores not being fantastic, and my teacher recommendations, both from faculty who are alums of my boarding school and Princeton, were excellent. I'm pretty sure at least one of them ranked me as "best in my career" on the teacher recommendation form.</p></li>
<li><p>I will get my AB in Ecology and Evolutionary Bio, and possibly a certificate in Environmental Science.</p></li>
<li><p>If you really need to say something more to Princeton to make your case, do not be afraid to send the optional supplement. It shouldn't be a novel, but 500 words can carry a lot. Also, make sure Princeton knows how you will take advantage of programs and opportunities that are unique to Princeton.</p></li>
</ul>